Are you a Gustavus student with an entrepreneurial spirit? Do you have a business idea brewing in your mind but don’t know where to start? Look no further than the Gustie Cup Entrepreneurship Competition! To help you kickstart your entrepreneurial journey, Gustavus is offering a series of sessions and workshops to guide you through the ideation, planning, and pitching process. Let’s delve into the details of each session to see how you can benefit from this exciting opportunity.
Info / Ideation Sessions:
The Info / Ideation Sessions are designed to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Gustie Cup competition and the resources available to support you along the way. These sessions will help you identify opportunities, shape your ideas, and explore the possibilities of starting a business or non-profit organization. Whether you’re a first-year student or a senior from any major, these sessions are open to all current Gustavus students. By attending these sessions, you’ll have a chance to ask questions, learn more about the competition, and get a head start on your entrepreneurial journey.
Start-up Labs:
If you’re looking to dive deeper into the entrepreneurial process, the Start-up Labs are the perfect place for you. These confidential learning spaces allow you to explore your ideas, build a business plan, assess your likelihood of success, and determine if entrepreneurship is the right path for you. You’ll leave these sessions with a solid framework and tools to continue shaping your business idea and plan. Whether you attend one lab or multiple, each session will provide valuable insights and guidance to help you refine your entrepreneurial vision.
Gustie Cup Coaching Sessions:
For personalized guidance and support, the Gustie Cup Coaching Sessions offer 1:1 coaching with alumni mentors or local entrepreneurs. By submitting your application worksheet by the deadline, you’ll be matched with a coach who will help you refine your business idea and application. These coaching sessions are a great opportunity to receive advice, ask questions, and gain industry insights from experienced professionals. Make sure to fill out your application worksheet thoroughly to maximize the benefits of this coaching opportunity.
Pitch Practice/Final Prep for Selected Gustie Cup Contestants:
As the Gustie Cup competition approaches, selected participants will have the opportunity to practice their pitches and receive feedback from a panel of coaches. This session will help you refine your pitch, share the right level of detail, and anticipate questions that may arise during the competition. By participating in this practice session, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to present your business idea at the Gustie Cup.
Gustie Cup:
Finally, the culmination of your entrepreneurial journey will take place at the Gustie Cup competition. On Saturday, April 12, 2025, participants will have the chance to showcase their business ideas through pitch presentations. After the pitches, judges will deliberate, and awards will be presented to the top contenders. The event will also feature a prediction contest for attendees, followed by a social gathering at Paddlefish Brewery in St. Peter.
In conclusion, the Gustie Cup Entrepreneurship Competition offers a unique opportunity for Gustavus students to explore their entrepreneurial aspirations, receive guidance from experienced mentors, and showcase their innovative ideas. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or simply curious about the world of startups, these sessions and workshops provide a valuable platform to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to turn your business dreams into reality!
